Dubai Sand Boarding
Sandboarding in Dubai is an exhilarating activity that combines the thrill of snowboarding with the unique environment of the desert. Gliding down the golden dunes on a board offers both adventure and a chance to enjoy the desert’s beauty. Here’s what you need to know about sandboarding in Dubai:
- Locations: The vast desert surrounding Dubai offers plenty of dunes suitable for sandboarding. Popular locations include the Big Red (Al Hamar) and Fossil Rock (Al Faya).
- Best Time: The cooler months between November and April are the most suitable for sandboarding due to the pleasant temperatures. During the summer months, it’s advisable to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak desert heat.
- Equipment: The board used for sandboarding is similar to a snowboard but is specially designed for the desert sand. Most tour operators will provide you with a sandboard as part of the package.
- Experience Level: Whether you’re a beginner or an expert snowboarder, sandboarding can be enjoyed by all. The friction of the sand makes it a bit slower than snowboarding, making it somewhat easier for beginners to try.
- Tours: Many tour operators in Dubai offer desert safari packages that include sandboarding as one of the activities, along with dune bashing, camel riding, and sometimes a desert camp experience with traditional food and entertainment.
- Safety: Wear comfortable and loose clothing, closed shoes (like sneakers), and bring sunglasses and sunscreen. Remember to stay hydrated, especially since the desert can be dehydrating. Before you start, you’ll typically receive a brief introduction and some basic instructions on how to sandboard.
- Climbing Dunes: Unlike snowboarding where you have ski lifts, in sandboarding, you’ll likely be climbing the dunes yourself after each run. It can be quite the workout!
- Preservation: When in the desert, be conscious of the environment. Avoid leaving trash behind, and be respectful of any wildlife you might encounter.
- Photography: Don’t forget to capture the moments! The desert provides a stunning backdrop for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
- Combinations: Since you’re in the desert, consider combining sandboarding with other desert activities. Quad biking, dune bashing, and camel rides are popular additions that offer a full desert adventure.
If you’re visiting Dubai and looking for a fun-filled activity that offers a blend of excitement and cultural experience, sandboarding is definitely worth trying. It’s a unique way to engage with the desert landscape and create lasting memories.